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Michigan Volleyball Eyes NCAA Return in 2026
16 Aug
Summary
- Michigan Volleyball voted 11th in Big Ten, aims for NCAA Tournament.
- Wolverines earned first NCAA berth since 2021 in 2025.
- New Big Ten Tournament format could boost Michigan's chances.
The Michigan Wolverines volleyball team, projected to finish 11th in the Big Ten for the 2026 season, is preparing for a strong campaign. After achieving their best record since 2018 in 2025 with a 22-11 overall record and a ninth-place conference finish, the team earned an NCAA Tournament appearance. They secured their first tournament win since 2019 by defeating Xavier.
This season introduces the first Big Ten Volleyball Tournament, which will determine the conference champion. Michigan will navigate a 17-match regular-season schedule, playing each Big Ten opponent once. Key players like outside hitters Ella Demetrician and Sydney Schnichels, setter Morgan Burke, middle blocker Jenna Hanes, and opposite hitter Lydia Johnson are expected to lead the team.
Michigan opens its exhibition play on Aug. 15 against No. 4 Pittsburgh and Aug. 19 against Notre Dame. The home season commences on Aug. 28 against Long Island University. Marquee matchups at home include games against preseason top-10 teams Nebraska, Penn State, and Purdue. Despite graduating key players, the Wolverines aim for back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances.
